The Best In Auto Transport

Prepare Your Vehicle to be Shipped

After you have selected and secured a reputable auto transport company, you will need to prepare your vehicle to be shipped. Because each auto transport company differs slightly, it is in your best interest to verify the proper steps directly with the company your select. However, the following steps are a good starting point.

Remove your personal items: If you are moving, it may seem like a great idea to pack your vehicle full of things you need to also arrive at your final destination in order to save yourself some additional shipping costs. Unfortunately, this is not a good idea for a number of reasons. Most auto transport companies are not insured to cover your personal items, and many are not even licensed to have them aboard, so they will instruct you to remove them prior to transport, delaying the departure time, and messing up the shipping schedule. The additional weight of your items in the vehicle can also put your over the pre-determined weight limit, which can lead to hefty fees and/or also cause delays.

Wash your car: This one may seem counter-intuitive, especially if your vehicle is being shipped in an open container. However, prior to departure, the driver will be assessing your vehicle from front to back, top to bottom, making note of any scratches or blemishes already present, and a clean car is much more easily inspected. A proper inspection will ensure there are no damage disputes when your vehicle arrives at its final destination.

Protect Aftermarket Add-ons: If your vehicle has any aftermarket alterations, you will want to make sure they are properly secured, or even removed, so as not to suffer any damages during transport. Especially items, such as spoilers, that may extend the shape and size of your vehicle, and make it more likely to be scratched or dented.

Ensure Gas Tank is LOW: You will want to leave your vehicle with approximately 1/8 tank to ¼ tank prior to pick-up. A full tank increases the weight of the vehicle which can lead to delays at weigh stations, and additional fees for you.

Make Sure Battery is Charged: Because your vehicle will need to be started after a prolonged period of disuse, depending on the shipping time, a fully charged battery will ensure there are no issues when it needs to be started back up at the final destination.

Again, confirm with your auto transport company additional steps for preparing your vehicle for transport prior to pick-up, but by following the steps above, you should be well prepared to having your vehicle shipped with no issues.